GEORGE NEWS - George Municipality has outlined its 2026/27 draft budget process following its Council adoption of key planning documents on 26 March, including the draft three-year budget (2026/27-2028/29), the draft fifth generation integrated development plan (IDP), the draft reviewed municipal spatial development framework (MSDF), and the draft top layer service delivery and budget implementation plan (SDBIP).
The municipality’s spokesperson, Ntobeko Mangqwengqwe, confirmed that the draft budget proposes an average tariff increase of 3.7% across property rates, water, sanitation and refuse services.
The adjustment is aligned with the consumer price index (CPI), with the municipality stating its intention to shield residents from above-inflation cost increases.
Electricity tariffs remain under review, and future adjustments are expected to be linked to bulk supply costs from Eskom and are subject to approval by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (Nersa).
Public participation process under way
The municipality confirmed that the public participation process was officially communicated through notices published from 2 April.
The residents were invited to engage through multiple channels, including email submissions to [email protected] and [email protected], WhatsApp on 060 779 7634, the My Smart City app, as well as through ward councillors and ward committees.
In-person public participation meetings were held across all 28 wards between 9 and 21 April.
These sessions formed part of the municipality’s statutory obligation to promote transparent and inclusive governance, providing residents with an opportunity to review draft plans, raise concerns, and submit proposals on service delivery priorities and budget allocations.
Deadlines and access to documents
The closing date for public comments on the draft budget, tariffs and related documentation is 6 May.
All draft documents, including the full budget, tariff schedules and supporting policies, are available on the municipality’s website or by scanning the QR codes attached. Hard copies are also accessible at municipal libraries and area offices during normal office hours.
Electronic copies can be requested where needed.
Residents requiring assistance with submissions, including those unable to read or write, may visit the municipal head office at 71 York Street, George, where officials are available to provide support during office hours.
Community engagement process concludes meetings
While public meetings for the 2026/27 IDP and budget have concluded, the municipality is still encouraging written submissions before the closing date. The engagement programme included presentations of draft plans, proposed projects and opportunities for residents to provide input.
The municipality further reported that it had used a range of communication platforms to promote participation, including radio interviews, WhatsApp groups, social media channels, ward committees, ward councillors and loud-hailing in selected areas.
George Municipality said it is encouraged by the level of community participation received to date, noting that all inputs will be considered in the finalisation of the IDP and budget for the 2026/27 financial year.
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